2010 Summit on Post-Secondary Success

DePaul Center • July 19 – 21, 2010 

List of Participants • David Kalsbeek’s Keynote • Don Hossler's Keynote
State of the Network • Postsecondary Initiatives Update • Opening Address from DePaul

The academic, social, and economic challenges facing low-income high school graduates in their transition to and through college remain formidable and well documented. Though the relative value of a college degree has never been greater, rates of college success for low-income students remain unchanged over the last several decades. With the launch of its University Partner Initiative in May 2009, the Cristo Rey Network began formalizing strategic relationships with colleges and universities committed to supporting Cristo Rey Network students. The partnership serves as a platform upon which future programs are currently being built to ensure postsecondary success for all Cristo Rey Network students.  

As part of its University Partner Initiative, the Cristo Rey Network convened its Annual Summit on Postsecondary Success on July 19 – 21 to share promising practices and programs focused on college success for Cristo Rey Network graduates.  In keeping with the mission, DePaul University’s Center for Access and Attainment has generously hosted the Summit.  The Center’s mission is to serve as a focal point for dialogue, strategy and action concerning college access and attainment, consistent with DePaul's vision to exceed national norms in recruiting, retaining and graduating a diverse student body, with an emphasis on first-generation and low-income students in the Chicago area.

Quotes from past participants:
“The Summit proved to be an excellent event! I would love to come and be a part of this event again next year.”  - Summit College Counselor Participant

“I received a lot of great information to take back to my university about becoming a partner.”  - Summit University Participant

“The Summit highlighted for me the importance of this Network.  Cristo Rey Network schools are making dreams come true for families and students of underprivileged backgrounds. These school are giving students the best of both worlds, while preparing them for the life of a goal-oriented college student. As an alumna, myself, I knew that Cristo Rey had made a difference in my life, but to meet the other students that felt the same way was a blessing.  I learned that this network must continue to diversify universities while also providing students with opportunities they would not have on their own."
 - Summit Alumni Representative